Is it possible to ‘port’ TD status if the TN holder changes employers?

To begin with, it is important to understand that the TN visa is employer-specific – that is, the authorization to work is directly tied to the employer who submitted the petition.

Dependents on this visa, who enter the United States with TD status, are not authorized to work but may accompany the principal while he or she maintains TN status.

That said, if the TN visa holder decides to change employers, this essentially implies a new TN petition for the new job. The TD dependents’ status is directly related to the principal’s TN status.

Therefore, there is no specific “portability” mechanism for TD status, as occurs in some cases with other visa categories. The TD dependent needs to update or, more specifically, obtain admission based on the new approval of the TN principal’s employer to ensure the records are updated.

In other words, the new set of documents – with the new employer’s approval – must support both the new TN status and the TD dependents’ condition.

It is essential to strictly follow United States immigration laws and pay close attention to the correct procedures to avoid complications. Changing employers for the TN principal requires all processes to be carried out according to current regulations.

For this reason, I always recommend seeking specialized guidance (avoiding miracle promises or information from unreliable sources) before making any changes, ensuring that all documentation and procedures comply with the law.

In summary, there is no portability procedure for TD status when the TN holder changes employers. The dependent will need to adjust his or her situation in line with the principal’s new approval, maintaining the derivative condition of their authorization to remain in the United States.

This care is essential to avoid future complications and guarantee that both the principal and dependents are properly documented according to the country”s requirements.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.